Project in the Works: Sam Cooke Biopic

As Aretha Franklin's biopic slowly takes shape, another biopic about another Soul legend is in the works., that of Sam Cooke. Based off of the book "Dream Boogie: The Triumph of Sam Cooke," Dick Clement and Ian Le Frenais of "Across the Universe" fame have recently finished their adaptation which was optioned by ABKCO, which owns the majority of Cooke's masters and publishing rights. The book which was written by Peter Guralnick was published in 2005 after Peter wrote the acclaimed script for the documentary "Sam Cooke - Legend" which won a Grammy award.

The film is said to cover Cooke's lifespan from 1931 to his tragic death in 1964 and will focus on his gospel roots, becoming one of the first R&B singers to appeal to both Black and white audiences, as well as his rise to becoming a civil rights activist and eventual pioneer for musicians and the genre of soul music. While no director or actors are currently attached to the project, it should only be a matter of time until pre-production commences. In terms of casting, Jamie Foxx, Keith Robinson, and Tyrese would be some of the singer/actors I would consider for the project. While Jamie has already proven his track record with Ray, and Tyrese is set to star in the Teddy Pendergrass biopic, maybe casting a lesser known actor like Robinson or hold a national casting call might be the way to go.

Either way it pans out, we will keep you posted on the status of this biopic and the others of interest as more news comes forward.